Second Bronx Real Estate Summit a Huge Success

Even thought the housing market in America is plagued with issues, the bullish attitude toward investing in the Bronx was once again proven with standing room only attendance at yesterdays second Bronx Real Estate Summit. The headliners included present Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and past Bronx Borough President, Adolfo Carrion Jr. . For those that don't know, Adolfo Carrion presently holds the very powerful position of New York / New Jersey Regional Director for HUD. I must admit it was exciting to see our former Bronx teacher, NYC Councilman and then Bronx Borough President casually mention interactions he had with President Obama. It seems like yesterday when Carrion was giving his own annual addresses to the Borough; much like Ruben Diaz Jr. gave just a few weeks ago. In any event, seeing both side by side was a testament to the progress Latinos have made in American society and a precursor of potential accomplishments to come by the Latino community. In many instances it was minority women who stood on patrol when the Bronx was burning and made sure their buildings were not included in the statistics. It looks like their sons have stood up to the plate and are now leaders in not only building the Bronx but also the re-building of distressed communities throughout America.

The room was bustling with property owners, land owners, developers, construction companies, non-profits, real estate brokers, city planners, political figures and more. Each was eager to network and either share their knowledge of our borough or learn more about what the Bronx has to offer. In addition to the headliners above and panelist who spoke on specific topics, recent data provided by the US Census Bureau also showed numbers bullish to real estate related ventures in our borough. Recent data showed the Bronx received 52,458 new residents this decade. The most drastic population increases were in South Bronx neighborhoods. Morrisania-Melrose saw the largest increase with 8,068 new residents. Melrose South – Mott Haven North saw the second largest increase with 6,019 new residents.

The three firms that collaborated to organize the seminar include The Kretchmer Companies, Mastermind and the South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (SOBRO). The venue was sponsored by Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP. The breakfast provided was sponsored by All New York Title Agency, Inc. Since the venue and breakfast were both paid for by the above companies, the museum was given the suggested donation entrance fee collected by each attendee. Over $3,000 was raised and given to the museum. The panelist included Carol Lamberg, the Executive Director of Settlement Housing Fund, Inc., Radame Perez, Chief Operating Officer of Mastermind Ltd., and Carol J. Samol, Director of the Bronx Borough Office Department of City Planning.

Congratulations to everyone who worked hard to make the event a success. For those that missed the event and are interested in attending the next Bronx real estate seminar, please do stay vigilant and log on to the BoogieDowner daily.

Gregory